Divergent synthesis of α-aryl ketones/esters via rhodium-catalyzed selective deesterification and decarbonylation of diazo compounds

Abstract

A rhodium-catalyzed selective deesterification and decarbonylation of diazo compounds is presented. Various α-aryl ketones and esters could be obtained in good to excellent yields with a wide substrate scope using benzimidazoles as the directing groups. Dual C–H activation products can also be gained by one-pot C–H functionalization/cyclization, using excess diazo compounds.